UNISIG Prepares for Big Manufacturing Changes
They install the largest double-column machine of its type in North America.
Posted: January 2, 2016
UNISIG (Menomonee Falls, WI) has increased the capacity of its U.S. manufacturing operations via a new MCR-A5CII-35×100 double-column machining center from Okuma America Corporation (Charlotte, NC) that is the largest double-column machine of its type in North America. The machine rapidly processes the complex components that go into the company’s large-sized deep-hole drilling systems.
The high-speed MCR-A5CII-35×100 machining center features multiple heads that allow it to process five sides of a large part in a single setup. As a result, the shop is able to manufacture high quality components for its systems in less time and at a reduced cost than if it were to use a traditional vertical machine. According to Anthony Fettig, the chief executive officer of UNISIG, the MCR-A5CII-35×100 further advances their engineering capabilities and productivity levels as the company continues to grow due to increased demand for its deep-hole drilling systems. “This machine allows us to keep semi-finished part production in-house and decreases labor intensive finishing work,” he added.
Overall, UNISIG continuously looks for new ways to optimize its operations to support the evolving technology demands of its customers in industries that include aerospace, automotive, defense, energy, and moldmaking. “While our world-class team of experts are the visionaries behind our products, we rely on the best possible technology to help bring our precision deep-hole drilling systems to life,” stated Fettig. “By investing in new production equipment, such as this machine, we can reduce our set-up times, improve throughput and minimize costly production errors — all of which bring added value to our customers.”
The MCR-A5CII-35×100 is a high-speed machining center with compact auto loading/unloading attachments for true 5-sided machining. The machine’s solid, highly rigid double-column construction helps UNISIG achieve the tight part tolerances that are required for its large systems. The machine has a 118 in x 394 in table, 61 ton weight capacity and a 6,000 rpm, 50 taper spindle for rapid production of large parts. To ensure the safe, efficient handling of the parts, the MCR-A5CII-35×100 incorporates a Konecranes® 50 ton bridge-style crane with a 40 ft span and 17 ft 1 in clearance. This variable speed crane is operated by radio control.
To prepare for installation of the new machine, the shop modified its production facility to include a deep, specially engineered foundation that weighs 650 tons and has helical piers in the ground that will support the combined weight of the machine and the 50 ton crane. Headquartered in Menomonee Falls, UNISIG is a world leader in the manufacture of deep-hole drilling systems and technologies for precision-focused metal cutting industries, including aerospace, automotive, energy and medical.
A state-of-the-art production facility and reliable network of local suppliers allow the company to design and manufacture its BTA, gundrilling, trepanning and skiving machines as well as its tooling solutions and automation in the United States.
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